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Bill

Bill

SB 609

AN ACT REQUIRING TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANIES AND STREAMING SERVICE PROVIDERS TO PROVIDE PRO RATA REBATES AND MAKE FEE DISCLOSURES AND PROHIBITING CERTAIN NONCONTRACTUAL CANCELLATION FEES.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Eric Berthel

Connecticut bill mandates streaming and telecom companies offer pro rata refunds for mid-cycle cancellations, disclose all fees upfront, and prohibits cancellation fees for non-contract customers.

REF. TO JOINT COMM. ON General Law
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Bill Summary · SB 609

Legislative bill overview

SB 609 requires telecommunications companies and streaming service providers to offer pro rata rebates when customers cancel mid-billing cycle and mandates clear disclosure of all fees upfront. The bill also prohibits noncontractual cancellation fees—charges imposed on customers who terminate services without a long-term contract.

Why is this important

Many consumers face surprise fees when canceling subscriptions or services, and billing structures can obscure true costs. This bill aims to increase transparency and fairness by ensuring customers receive refunds for unused service time and understand all potential charges before committing to a service.

Potential points of contention

  • Business impact: Companies argue pro rata rebates reduce revenue and may pressure them to raise base prices or service costs across the board
  • Scope definition: Unclear whether "streaming service providers" includes all digital services (YouTube, social media with paid tiers, etc.) or only video/music platforms, creating compliance uncertainty
  • Noncontractual fee prohibition: Raises questions about whether companies can recoup administrative costs of account closure or early termination through other mechanisms, potentially affecting service quality investments

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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